An Ealing runner who has helped change the lives of homeless women through athletics has been awarded by Prime Minister David Cameron .

Nicola Miller, who founded A Mile in Her Shoes, was given the Point of Light Award by the Tory leader for making a "real difference in her community".

The keen runner and communications director first volunteered at a Crisis centre - a homeless charity - in 2012 which motivated her to continue helping the homeless.

The 37-year-old then set up her charity which works with homeless organisations in a bid to organise running groups, with a donated kit and snacks, every week in London with a qualified running instructor.

'Huge honour'

She said: "It's a huge honour to have been named a Point of Light.

"Volunteers remain at the heart of A Mile in Her Shoes, which is a very small charity that employs no staff, and it would be nowhere without them.

"They play a crucial role; giving up their time to do everything from lead running group sessions to sitting on our board, so I really see this Point of Light Award as something that I share with each and every one of those volunteers who enable us to help women affected by homelessness feel good about themselves".

The Point of Light award, of which Ms Miller is the 539th winner, is awarded to "outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others".

'Outstanding service'

Mr Cameron, MP for Witney, said: "Nicola has turned her passion for running into a powerful project helping women affected by homelessness in our capital city.

"Her bright idea has enabled vulnerable women across London to find support and grow in confidence whilst improving their health.

"I’m delighted to recognise Nicola as a Point of Light, for outstanding service that is making a real difference in her community."